This was the profile for today's walk. An uphill that might have had us concerned.
We spent a great night at the Albergue Gaucelmo in Rabanal, including breakfast, then just as we were ready to leave, it began to snow. Ever so slightly, but so exciting. Lex was keen to get going before snow further up the mountain melted.
Sunlight on snow on nearby mountains looked magnificent but the morning was icy. A freezing wind blew into our faces for the first kilometre, but we were mesmerised by the increasing amounts of snow. It was simply stunning. We have so many snow pics!
We reached Cruz de Ferro, also covered in snow. This is the highest point of the camino, and a place where pilgrims leave stones they have carried with them, either to honour the memory of loved ones, or as a symbolic unburdening of their sins. Lex and I both left small stones we had carried with us.
One of our camino family carried stones given to her by family and friends- one kilo of stones! Such a generous gesture. I'm sure her pack is so much lighter tonight. What a gem!
It was a moving experience.
From this point on, snow started to fall on us. So exhilarating. Well it was for us, although we spoke to others who didn't enjoy the day as we had. We had dressed for the weather. Merino under layer. I had two wool layers and a fleece hoodie under my new rain jacket. Actually hot on the way up, but really perfect. Oh, and a buff - so useful to keep neck warm and pull up over my face.
We walked in falling snow for about three hours, apparently. Soooo many snow pics. Check out Camino Week 4 slides how for more
Once over the top and on the descent, the snow stopped, and the scenery changed dramatically.
Sometime after lunch stop we were walking in sunlight, and just before our destination for the afternoon, it began to rain. We were quite drenched. All in a day!
Wildflowers everywhere again
Tonight we are in Molinaseca. Both main albergues are full, and we are in small 'albergue' booked from nearby hotel. Just a house. Interesting. They have two huge dogs. But so friendly. Another funny experience.
Notes to self
- 28km Rabanal del Camino to Molinaseca
- Bed in albergue house is 5€ each.
- Baño natural is better in snow than in icy winds, or the baño available at Manjarin, I think.
- Local drink, other than red wine is orujo. Interesting. Strong. Tonight's pilgrim meal came with the usual wine or water and a small shot of orujo for 9€. Nice indeed.
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